<p>Abdominal wall pathology encompasses a broad range of neoplastic, inflammatory, traumatic, iatrogenic, and vascular processes, many of which can be clinically occult and incidentally detected on CT performed in the emergency setting. Missed abdominal wall findings on cross-sectional imaging are not uncommon and may carry significant clinical consequences, underscoring the importance of systematic evaluation of the body wall during interpretation. While CT remains the primary modality for assessing deep or complex abdominal wall abnormalities, conventional two-dimensional imaging may be limited in its ability to depict subtle anatomic interfaces and spatial relationships. Cinematic rendering (CR) is an emerging 3D imaging technique that simulates advanced lighting models to generate photorealistic images with improved soft-tissue contrast, texture detail, and depth perception. In this pictorial review, we illustrate cases where CR can potentially enhance visualization of abdominal wall anatomy and pathology, and in certain cases, may aid in identifying findings that may be overlooked on conventional CT. Given the time sensitive and information limited nature of emergency care, CR offers promise as a useful adjunct that may facilitate diagnostic clarity, guide surgical or interventional planning, and support improved acute patient management.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>